CARD
!”KINGDOM OF HAWAII”
!”1830″
END CARD
Flames lick upward as an image of a tall, wooden Hawaiian god burns on a temple platform at the top of Whale Hill. The smoke from the burning image eddies down the slope.
The carved god’s head is large with elaborate grooves representing hair that sweep downward. A snarling face has a large mouth that is surrounded by parallel grooves representing a beard, with the nostrils extending outward. The body and limbs are simple elliptical volumes. The knees are bent and the calves are heavy. There is a feeling of flexed muscles and aggressive power.
A male MISSIONARY (30) dressed in a worn black suit is standing on the beach as a skiff carries an Englishman, DR. PELHAM (35), from a ship anchored offshore. Two NATIVES stand with the Missionary. When the skiff reaches the shore
MISSIONARY
Dr. Pelham! Welcome to Hawaii!
DR. PELHAM
Glad to be here.
MISSIONARY
We so much appreciate your visit. Many are in need of a doctor. Come. I borrowed a couple of horses to carry us uphill.
The Missionary leads Dr. Pelham to two awaiting horses.
MISSIONARY
I hope you can ride bareback. We have no saddles.
Dr. Pelham nods and accepts help up onto one of the horses. The Natives pick up his baggage.
As the horses enter the nearby forest, spectacular rainbows occur in a light mist that a strong wind carries down the slope. Herds of longhorn cattle graze in grassy areas within the forest.
MISSIONARY
The Hawaiians believe this area is sacred because of those rainbows.
DR. PELHAM
Very impressive.
MISSIONARY
How was your voyage?
DR. PELHAM
Too long. I am very glad to be on solid ground.
MISSIONARY
Do stay away from the cattle. They all belong to the Hawaiian King and are wild and very dangerous.
Dr. Pelham looks backward toward the sea and the temple.
DR. PELHAM
Why is that idol burning?
MISSIONARY
You won’t believe this, but the Hawaiian King abolished the Hawaiian religion and ordered the images of their gods burned just before we arrived.
DR. PELHAM
How fortunate for you.
MISSIONARY
God is taking care of us. The Hawaiian nobles are converting to Christianity at an increasing pace. We are now working on the commoners and your visit is part of our outreach.
DR. PELHAM
What’s the plan?
MISSIONARY
We have set up a clinic for you in our church sanctuary and will bring patients to you.
A large group of MEN, each carrying from one to six pieces of sandalwood, are walking down the trail. The pieces of wood are tied on their backs by bands made of ti leaves. The bands are passed over the shoulders and under their arms, and fastened across their chests.
MISSIONARY
The King owns all the sandalwood, too. It is highly prized in China.
Hawaiian houses with stone walls and grass roofs are scattered across the landscape. Naked HAWAIIAN CHILDREN run up to the horses as they enter the village. They stop at one of the houses.
MISSIONARY
This will be your home during your stay.
He points to a much larger, but similar in design, structure.
MISSIONARY
That is our sanctuary.
They lower themselves to the ground.
MISSIONARY
It gets dark quickly here. I will collect you for dinner.
A crude table is set up in the Missionary’s house. Candles flicker. The MISSIONARY’S WIFE is serving a dinner of pork and poi. Dr. Pelham smiles and bows to the Missionary’s Wife and sits down on a seat at the table that the Missionary has pulled back. Whoops and hollers can be heard. The Missionary shakes his head.
MISSIONARY
Sorry about that. There are about 60 foreigners from eight different countries living in our district. Most them act like mad men. Recently, one man bit the ear off another in a fit of intoxication.
DR. PELHAM
(smiling)
I won’t be able to help with that sort of injury.
The Missionary, his Wife, and Dr. Pelham bow their heads as the Missionary prepares to say grace.
After dinner, the Missionary and Dr. Pelham walk outside.
DR. PELHAM
I wanted to warn you that I am looking for a Hawaiian skeleton.
MISSIONARY
What?
DR. PELHAM
A colleague of mine in England wants one to study. Do you think that will be possible?
MISSIONARY
Well, Hawaiians place a lot of value on the bones of the deceased. But over 80 percent of the natives in our area have died of diseases like syphilis, smallpox, and tuberculosis, brought here by the riff-raff of the Pacific. So finding a body of a person whose relatives have died may be possible.
DR. PELHAM
Thanks for understanding.
Dr. Pelham is seeing patients. He performs a physical examination of an OLD HAWAIIAN (66) who has an infection in his torso. The old Hawaiian is wearing an old shirt and pants.
DR. PELHAM
How did this happen?
OLD HAWAIIAN
I wasn’t as good at spear dodging as I should have been. I have been sick for a long time. I think I will die soon.
DR. PELHAM
I hope not. Do you have any relatives who can take care of you?
OLD HAWAIIAN
Just my daughter. But I came here for a different reason. I want you to write down my family’s story before I die.
DR. PELHAM
I would be willing to do that in the evenings, but I need something from you.
OLD HAWAIIAN
What can I give you?
DR. PELHAM
Your bones. A friend of mine needs a skeleton of a Hawaiian for his research.
OLD HAWAIIAN
I agree. I will return tonight and tell you my story.
A fire is burning outside Dr. Pelham’s house. Dr. Pelham and the Old Hawaiian are sitting on logs near the fire. Dr. Pelham has a pen and paper in hand.
DR. PELHAM
Tell me your story.
OLD HAWAIIAN
I have royal blood. Here, royal succession is based on not on birth order but on a noble child’s rank.
DR. PELHAM
What do you mean by rank?
OLD HAWAIIAN
A child’s rank is determined by the genealogy of both its father and its mother. Wise kings did not have a first child with a woman of lower rank. But this is not a story about a wise king.
CARD
!”200 YEARS EARLIER”
END CARD
CUT TO:
A traditional Hawaiian chant, Arise, (E Ala E) plays in the background.
On the leeward flank of a windswept mountain at the north end of the island of HAWAII, an early development stage of what will eventually become an enormous (2.5 miles wide and 12 miles long) dryland garden stretches out below. The Hill of the Jealousy (Pu’u O Kahua) towers in the distance.
Some 8,000 farmers (men who look thin and hungry) work the terraced land with digging sticks (o’o). Sugar cane grows along the terrace walls; sweet potatoes and dry-land taro (kalo) in between, normally watered by the mists that the trade winds push over the mountain.
The Hawaiian chant ends abruptly.
A tall, athletic Hawaiian youth, PONO (pronounced POE-no) (18), emerges from the distance and runs through the garden toward us and then turns right and runs downhill on a trail towards a coastal village. His black hair is short on the sides and extends down his back.
Pono passes farmers along his route, who stop to watch him. All are wearing only a loincloth (malo).
FARMERS
(chanting admiringly)
Po-no, Po-no, Po-no.
Pono passes a GROUP OF YOUNG MEN learning a Hawaiian fighting (lua) move for back breaking called folded backward (pelu’ia-i-hope). Pono’s same-aged, lighter-skinned, and much shorter, but more muscular, half-brother, KEA (pronounced KAY-ah) is slowly showing the move to a same-aged cousin, NAIKA (pronounced NYE-ka). Pono’s younger full brother, UMIO (pronounced OO-me-oh) (16), is watching.
As they practice, Naika slowly throws a RIGHT PUNCH. Teaching, Kea slowly moves his LEFT FOOT FORWARD to sidestep the punch and strikes Naika’s RIGHT ARMPIT with with his elbow. Then Kea places his LEFT PALM behind Nika’s back and forces Naika’s upper body backward with his RIGHT ELBOW while pulling at the small of Niaka’s back with his left palm. Naika winces as his back bends backward.
Pono waves to his brothers with a smile on his face. He is sweating but not out of breath.
PONO
Yo, my brothers!
Pono runs toward a GROUP OF BARE-BREASTED HAWAIIAN WOMEN dressed in skirts (pa’u) making bark fiber cloth (kapa) in the shade of a palm tree.
When Pono reaches the women, he smiles and grabs a beautiful, lighter-skinned, smaller (petite) woman, LANI (pronounced LAW-nee) (16), throws her over his shoulder, and heads for the surf, dropping his loincloth on the way.
Lani smiles and enjoys the attention, but becomes self conscious. She speaks in cadence with his footfalls.
LANI
Put. Me. Down. Or I will. Never. Kiss. You again!
Pono runs into the surf, dumps Lani into the water, dives in after her, and then surfaces as she does. Pono looks into her eyes.
PONO
As you wish.
Lani smiles, her pupils dilated. As they rub noses, a wave washes over them, separating them for a while. When they surface, Pono wraps his arms around Lani, who is pouting again. They lock eyes. You can tell he is besotted by her. They whisper to one another.
LANI
I am a grown woman now. When will my grandfather let us marry? Why does he want us to wait? I want to start our family.
PONO
During the New Year’s Festival, I’ll ask the King again.
LANI
(sternly)
You’d better.
Kea yells from shore.
KEA
(shaking his head)
Break it up, you two. Brother, you won’t win the race next week if you don’t get serious.
Pono is not really listening to Kea.
One of the older women, LANI’S MOTHER, yells from the shore.
LANI’S MOTHER
Lani, come back here. Right now! You’re too old for such behavior.
Pono and Lani dutifully move toward the shore. Pono’s hands cover his crotch.
LANI
(mouthing the words)
I want to talk tonight, at our special place.
Pono nods.
Pono, Naika, Umio, and Kea sit down to dinner. They lean back against the north wall of Whale Hill Temple (Pu’u Kohola Heiau) and glaze out toward the Hill of Jealousy.
TWO SLAVES (men with a circumflex or accent mark ^ tattooed on their foreheads) remove a small pig from an underground oven and bring portions and a bowl of poi to them.
KEA
Aren’t you and Lani moving a little fast? You’ve only been at court for a few months.
PONO
What can I say? She’s my girl.
Naika speaks while chewing.
NAIKA
And my cousin.
KEA
She’s also a King’s granddaughter with lots of admirers, one of whom is our older brother.
PONO
But, she’s not in line to inherit the throne. And Kanaloa is too old for her.
Kea shakes his head.
KEA
(pointing)
Tell me the name of that hill.
PONO
The Hill of Jealousy. So?
KEA
You really have no clue, do you?
PONO
About what?
KEA
How dangerous it is to come out of nowhere and snag the most beautiful woman at court.
PONO
Brother, you worry too much.
They continue eating.
The moon is full. The land is bathed in MOONLIGHT.
Lani sneaks out of her parent’s house and hurries away.
Her back toward us, Lani undresses, slips into the cool, still water, and swims out into the pool. She wets her hair. The ripples in the water reflect the moonlight.
Pono arrives, sits down on the shore, and gazes at Lani. She licks her luscious lips and throws back her hair.
PONO
Wow.
LANI
Come swim with me. The water feels wonderful.
Pono hesitates.
PONO
Kea says I am moving too fast.
LANI
What does he know?
PONO
More than me, for sure.
LANI
You are not moving fast enough for me.
PONO
I can tell.
LANI
You still want to marry me, don’t you?
PONO
Very much.
LANI
Then, come swim with me.
His back toward us, Pono disrobes and dives into the pool.
CUT TO:
Pono’s father, KEAWE (pronounced KAY-ah-vay) (45) and Pono’s older brother, KANALOA (pronounced KAH-nah-low-ah) (25), who has reddish hair (‘ehu) walk into a meeting of a group of tough-looking HAWAIIAN CHIEFS and COUNSELOR. Counselor has a white robe hanging from one shoulder. Keawe sits down.
REBEL CHIEF
(nodding at Keawe and then Kanaloa)
Welcome Keawe, Kanaloa.
Kanaloa addresses the group, gesturing toward Keawe.
KANALOA
Father’s right. We have to do something about this famine. Our side of the island is not even getting its fair share of the food we’re producing.
Kanaloa pats one of the Chiefs on the back.
KANALOA
Our warriors must be fed to be strong. The drought is even worse on Maui. They want our food and are likely to invade.
The Chiefs and Counselor nod in agreement. Keawe stands up.
KEAWE
I need your support. You know I would be a better at increasing food production and at repelling an invasion than my brother. After he is gone, I will divide the land among my supporters.
The Chiefs and Counselor smile ominously.
REBEL CHIEF
But what about his district chiefs?
KEAWE
(smiling)
You will become my district chiefs. They will become dead.
KANALOA
It is decided. Who will kill the king?
REBEL CHIEF
I’ll have one of my men stab him as he wades ashore at the end of the New Year’s Festival festival.
Rebel Chief turns to Kanaloa.
REBEL CHIEF
We’ll need to get rid of as many of his royal guards as we can at the same time.
KANALOA
Agreed. Don’t tell Pono our plans. He’s too close to his uncle. And do not disclose them to Kea or Naika either. They’re too close to Pono.
The Chiefs nod in agreement and then leave the building.
KEAWE
(shaking his head)
Kanaloa, I wish that Pono were not my highest ranking son. I should never have married his mother after you were born. When I am King, I will have you both marry Lani. (smiling) I am sure one of your children inherit the throne.
KANALOA
Thank you, father.
Keawe, Kanaloa, and Counselor leave.
Kanaloa and Umio approach Pono.
KANALOA
(disparagingly)
Hello, squirt.
PONO
(grudgingly)
My brothers.
KANALOA
What is this I hear about you and Lani?
PONO
It’s none of your business.
Kanaloa approaches Pono and PUSHES him backward. When Pono’s raises his arms to regain his balance, Kanaloa grabs Pono’s RIGHT LITTLE FINGER between Kanaloa’s left thumb and index finger, initiating the lua technique “grab little finger” (‘ai-lima-iki). With Kanaloa’s fingers resting against Pono’s wrist, Pono’s little finger is BENT BACKWARD as Kanaloa moves his right leg back.
Wincing as he is pulled toward Kanaloa, Pono FALLS TO HIS KNEES as Umio smiles menacingly.
KANALOA
It’s very much my business. Stay. Away. From her.
Kanaloa releases Pono’s finger and Pono rises.
PONO
It’s too late, Kanaloa. We are in love.
Pono forms his right hand into a fist and SWINGS it at Kanaloa’s head.
Kanaloa steps back with his right foot while BLOCKING Pono’s swinging right arm with Kanaloa’s left forearm, initiating the lua technique “the navel of Wakea” (ka-pico-o-Wakea). Kanaloa THRUSTS his right hand, fingers extended and joined, with the palm down into Pono’s navel area. As Pono crumples
KANALOA
In case you hadn’t heard, love is dangerous around here.
Pono hits the ground and Kanaloa and Umio start to leave.
PONO
(looking up, wryly)
Thanks for the brotherly advice.
A HERALD blows on a Triton or Cassis cornuta seashell (pu).
The KING (50) is holding court and the village is teaming with local PETITIONERS and the many (hundreds) members of his COURT, including Kanaloa.
FIRST PETITIONER
Sire, my neighbors’ crops have failed and they are stealing our food. They blame the drought. What should I do?
KING
My soothsayers tell me that the drought is almost over. Share your food.
First Petitioner is waved away. As Kanaloa glowers, Pono respectfully approaches the King.
PONO
Uncle, you know I love Lani and want to marry her. We are both old enough now. May we marry?
KING
I love you both, but she is my son’s highest ranking daughter and I may have to marry her to someone else first. For political reasons. You understand.
Pono mumbles to himself.
PONO
What?
The King turns to meet another Petitioner, but speaks to Pono.
KING
Be patient. And think about how you will afford a wife.
PONO
Thank you, Uncle. We love you, too.
Pono knows he is in trouble and takes his leave.
Across the village, Pono approaches Lani with a hang-dog look on his face.
LANI
(worried)
What happened?
PONO
He said we have to wait.
LANI
(angry now)
Wait for what?
PONO
Some political arrangements he’s making.
Pono attempts to appear nonchalant, shaking his head.
LANI
Political arrangements! Let’s just leave all this. Travel to another island. Make our own life.
PONO
Lani, I love you, but I want to work this out, here.
LANI
Well, you let me know how that turns out.
Lani stomps off in a huff.
PONO
Lani, please!
Pono shakes his head.
Pono, naked with a long wooden (koa) surfboard under his arm, enters the water and paddles out to join other surfing nobles in the lineup beyond the surf break.
Lani and Lani’s Mother are watching him from the beach.
When Pono arrives at the break, his stomach on the board, he addresses a local surfer, HEA (pronounced HAY-uh) (16).
PONO
Aloha. How does this break work?
HEA
This time of day every fourth wave is larger. Line up behind me and I’ll show you.
Local Surfer glances toward the beach.
HEA
Who’s the girl with you?
PONO
That’s my girlfriend.
HEA
Nice, dude.
Hea catches the next large wave.
Pono waits and catches the fourth wave. He rides it toward shore. He is waved in by FIRST HUSBAND (40).
FIRST HUSBAND
After lunch, Auntie has a lesson for you.
PONO
What kind of lesson? I need some time to think.
FIRST HUSBAND
You’re not going to like it, but it’s necessary. See you at Keawe’s armory after lunch.
First Husband leaves and Pono paddles out to the lineup again.
Pono tours his father’s darkened armory with his AUNTIE (36), and her two husbands, First Husband, and his younger brother, SECOND HUSBAND (36), who are his foster parents (guardians who are raising him).
Auntie is chubby and in charge. First Husband is a jolly, rotund fellow. Second Husband is thinner and quirky.
AUNTIE
Pono, you’ve lived a sheltered life, as the oracles instructed. But, as a chief’s highest ranking son, it’s time for you to learn about life. In particular, your father wants you to learn about war.
PONO
Do I have to do this now?
AUNTIE
Yes, you do.
Pono points to a wooden implement (newa) hanging on the building. It is a beautiful koa-wood war club, lined with shark’s teeth.
PONO
(resigned)
OK. What’s that?
AUNTIE
It is a war club. It is used to kill opponents in close combat.
PONO
Ugh! I am not interested in killing opponents in battle. I’ll have no use for a war club.
Auntie looks exasperated as Pono nods at First Husband and Second Husband.
PONO
(wryly)
I think your husbands should use it to turn over stones in the underground oven when they cook our dinner.
Husbands start to laugh, but Auntie frowns them down.
Pono looks up and sees a bundle of short war spears or javelins (ihe).
PONO
What are those?
AUNTIE
These war spears are used at close range for thrusting and at long range for throwing at the enemy. Some chiefs are very good at warding off spears.
Pono takes one down and handles it.
PONO
I’d much rather be good at warding off spears than throwing them.
AUNTIE
You will get to decide which war implements are important and which are not soon enough. For now, your father makes those decisions.
Auntie turns to leave.
AUNTIE
It is time for us to travel to town for the festivities.
Pono and Husbands follow her.
In town, Pono sees an old man, HIGH PRIEST (60), at a distance, whose white hair reaches below his waist. A white robe hangs from one shoulder. He is speaking with someone and is very charismatic.
PONO
Is that old man with the long hair a god?
FIRST HUSBAND
No, he isn’t a god. He’s a high priest, higher than the others. He can predict the future.
PONO
May a young man like me address him?
First Husband nods and approaches High Priest. They speak and both return to Pono who addresses High Priest.
PONO
(shyly)
Thank you for speaking with me. I’ve been told that you can tell the future.
High Priest smiles and nods.
HIGH PRIEST
Sometimes.
PONO
Please tell me then, when will there be enough food for the people?
High Priest eyes sparkle as he ponders for a moment.
HIGH PRIEST
The land will be brought to life when all things are again correct and proper.
Pono nods but does not quite understand. He moves on.
PONO
What will my future be like?
HIGH PRIEST
You will be a wealthy chief at times, but, when you reach maturity, you will be poor and be without followers.
Pono looks a little worried.
PONO
How can I avoid being poor?
HIGH PRIEST
The profession that will make you famous over all the islands is that of orator. You can avoid being poor by being a good and generous leader.
PONO
I can be good and generous. Would you teach me how to be an orator?
HIGH PRIEST
I would be happy to, my prince. Now, though, I must return to my duties.
High Priest leaves and Pono turns to First Husband.
PONO
Why did he say “My prince?” I’m not a prince. I’m just a chief’s son.
First Husband smiles and shrugs.
FIRST HUSBAND
The New Year’s Festival awaits!
PRIESTS prepare for the progression of the New Year’s Festival (Ma-ka-hi-ki) around the island.
A representational image of the New Year’s Festival god, LONO, is assembled and decorated. It consists of a long pole (3.5 to 5.5 meters high) carved at the top with the god’s image.
A crosspiece is attached to the pole and to it are tied colorful feather wreaths, albatross skins, and a rectangular piece of kapa that looks like a sail.
FIRST PRIEST
Hoist it up. Let’s see what it looks like.
The pole is held vertical by SECOND PRIEST.
PONO
(to First Husband)
What is that?
FIRST HUSBAND
Sorry we had to keep you away from all this. That is the god of the New Year’s Festival. It’s carried around the island on the King’s Trail. At each land division boundary, tribute is paid to our god king. By performing this ritual, we ensure success of the crops next year.
PONO
Why was I kept away?
FIRST HUSBAND
Before you were born, your mother was warned by the soothsayers that someone might harm you. So, she had us bring you up away from society.
Pono is silent but wrinkles his brow as he watches the Priests as they continue their preparations.
The New Years god is carried to the King’s Trail that follows the shoreline around the island. At the King’s Trail, the King greets the God with ritual tears and expressions of love.
The King is dressed in a loin cloth and a colorful red and yellow feather helmet and cloak. He is assisted by PRIESTS of the Lono cult who are dressed in white robes.
The god, King, and Priests begin a clockwise circuit of the island. A large THRONG follows the Priests, including Kea, Naika, Pono, and First Husband.
Pono pretends that he does not notice that Lani and Kanaloa are flirting with one another.
PONO
(to First Husband)
Uh. Should we bring food?
FIRST HUSBAND
The tribute will provide food for all of us. Let’s party!
Pono and First Husband join the Throng.
The OVERSEER of a land division presents collected annual tribute to the God at an alter along the trail at the land division boundary. The tribute consists of kapa cloths, skirts, loincloths, brightly-colored feathers, pigs, taro, fish, and dogs.
OVERSEER
Oh, Lono. Please accept this tribute from the unworthy people of this district.
KING
I accept your tribute in the name of Lono.
The NOBLES and COMMONERS abstain from all work as they watch the ceremony.
PONO
(to First Husband)
This is going to be fun!
The Priests begin to collect the tribute as the Throng moves on.
At a district boundary, boxing, wrestling, sledding, rolling stone disks (maika), foot races, and other games are played.
IN ONE OPEN AREA
a DANCE TROOP performs a HULA to a DRUMBEAT.
IN A SECOND OPEN AREA
Lani stands in front of a similarly-sized MALE OPPONENT. Their arms are at their sides, wrists forward, their hands forming fists. They take turns landing a blow on the other. Neither is allowed to block the blows of the other.
She first bloodies and then knocks down her Opponent, winning a boxing match as SPECTATORS stand in a circle and PARTISANS hurl epithets.
NAIKA
Mr. Bloody Nose, you’d better go back to bed. You’re losing to a novice, a little one to boot.
Her Opponent gets up, but is knocked out cold by Lani.
PONO
(to First Husband)
That’s my girl. I am getting hungry.
FIRST HUSBAND
I smell dinner.
Pono and First Husband wander off. Naika turns to Lani.
NAIKA
I’m going to get my fortune told.
Lani tousles his hair.
IN A THIRD OPEN AREA
Naika approaches High Priest.
NAIKA
Sir, please tell me my fortune.
HIGH PRIEST
I would be happy to.
High Priest places his hand on Naika’s head and closes his eyes.
HIGH PRIEST
You will die either a king or married to a queen.
NAIKA
Wow! I mean, thank you.
High Priest wanders off while Naika stands there stunned.
Nobles and Commoners are dressed in their best. LOUD PRAYERS are chanted by the Priests.
IN ONE OPEN AREA
Male Commoners cook pigs for men and dogs for women in underground ovens.
IN A SECOND OPEN AREA
Female Commoners are preparing kava (awa) for the crowds by chewing pepper root and spitting the juice in a bowl.
Everywhere the cries of people drunk on kava can be heard.
PONO
(to Lani)
You want to try it?
LANI
No thanks, party guy.
At nightfall, Nobles and Commoners together go to bathe in the ocean and a sexual orgy occurs until dawn. Pono and Lani watch the revelers. Pono is amazed.
PONO
I like the New Year’s Festival.
LANI
(to Pono)
Don’t even think about joining in.
Pono smiles.
PONO
I’m in training to be an orator. Remember?
At another district boundary, boxing, wrestling, sledding, rolling stone disks, foot races, and other games are played.
Pono is one of the racers. As the Racers pass Kea, he yells to a COMPETITOR.
KEA
Watch out for that root!
Pono wins the foot race when Kea trips his Competitor to the great amusement of the one hundred or so SPECTATORS.
KEA
Let’s get some rest. The festival ends tomorrow.
The King is ritualistically bathing in the ocean in front of a large CROWD at the end of the festival.
After being purified, he and his WARRIORS take their canoes out to sea and then return to shore where, as a part of the ritual, they are met by a group of warriors that ceremonially resembles an opposing army. The King is accompanied by a Warrior who is supposed to be good at warding off spears.
THIS TIME the opposing army is a real one, consisting of Keawe’s supporters. One spear is warded off and the King is touched by a second spear, in accordance with the ritual.
UNEXPECTEDLY, the King is then stabbed and killed by CATSPAW, who is, in turn killed by Rebel Chief.
Most of the Warriors who accompany the King are also killed, and Keawe steps forward.
KEAWE
(to the crowd)
I am now your king.
Pono and Lani are aghast as are others in the Crowd.
PONO
(aside to Lani)
I will protect you.
LANI
You’d better learn to protect yourself.
Keawe and his Warriors then step into the canoes and finish the ritual by paddling out to sea.
The dead King’s body is carried to the top of Whale Hill Temple and is washed and placed on the altar as a sacrifice.
PEOPLE are WAILING and some are knocking a tooth out in sorrow, with blood streaming down their faces. Lani is SOBBING uncontrollably.
PONO
Lani, I’m so sorry. This can’t be happening.
KEA
This situation disgusts me.
Pono attempts to comfort Lani, but she will have none of it.
LANI
You are as useless as my father!
CUT TO:
Keawe is consolidating power.
Keawe, Kanaloa, and their Warriors are dirty and bloody, but jubilant. Their plan is working.
Keawe holds up a basket of bones.
KEAWE
I have in this basket the bones of all but one of my brother’s district chiefs. By tomorrow, I want this basket filled.
The Warriors cheer.
The LOYAL FORCES of the one remaining OLD DISTRICT CHIEF are positioned at the top of grassy Bird Hill (Pu’u Maneo). The grass is tall and dry and the trade winds are blowing out of the northeast.
KEAWE’S WARRIORS set the grass on fire and the flames race up the hill. The SCREAMS of the Loyal Forces are heard. Kanaloa and his Warriors surge up the hill behind the flames and capture a burned Old District Chief.
DISTRICT CHIEF
It’s wrong for your father to have killed the rightful King.
KANALOA
(wryly)
The kingdom is under new management.
Kanaloa stabs and kills the District Chief.
KANALOA
(to a nearby warrior)
I want to see his bones by nightfall.
The Warrior nods.
The body of the Old District Chief is placed in an underground oven and cooked by Keawe’s Warriors. After his body is cooked, his major bones are removed. The bones are placed in the basket and given to Keawe.
KANALOA
The bones of your enemies. Congratulations, Father!
The DEAD KING’S SON (30) is surrounded by BEAUTIFUL WOMEN and food. He is too fat to even move and is apparently accepting the loss of the crown.
KEAWE
I think Lani’s father will not be a problem.
KANALOA
Your rule is secure. Let’s celebrate.
Keawe chuckles.
Keawe is in a room filled with NOBLES and BEAUTIFUL WOMEN. They are playing a game (kilu) to see who will sleep with whom that night.
SPECTATOR
(whispering)
King Keawe is sleeping with common women again, impairing the royal bloodline. That’s not right!
FIVE PLAYERS OF EACH SEX sit facing each other in front of Spectators. The floor between them is covered with matting. In front of each Player is a conical block of heavy wood.
EACH PLAYER in turn casts a dish cut obliquely from a coconut shell in a sliding and rotary motion toward the block in front of the member of the opposite sex of his or her choosing.
A successful hit entitles a Player to a kiss and a ten hits entitles the Player to bed his or her choice.
Keawe is obviously enjoying being king and wins a Beautiful Woman.
Early the next morning KANALOA’S MOTHER (38), a red head (‘ehu), walks into the house in which Keawe and the Beautiful Woman are sleeping.
KANALOA’S MOTHER
Wake up, you old lech!
Keawe and the Beautiful Woman wake up. The Beautiful Woman quickly gathers her skirt and leaves, her head down. Keawe is groggy and grumpy.
KEAWE
Wha’ doyou want?
KANALOA’S MOTHER
In case you’ve forgotten, I’m here to remind you that the future rulers of Hawaii are going to be related to me. Got that? You promised me that our son, Kanaloa, is going to be the next king.
KEAWE
Yes, dear. I am doing what I can to make sure that happens.
KANALOA’S MOTHER
You do that.
Kanaloa’s Mother storms out.
CUT TO:
Later, Pono and Lani approach Keawe.
PONO
Father, why did Uncle have to die? We all loved him so much.
KEAWE
Your uncle had to die because he was not a good king. Pono, you will go with your retainers to live in the south. Lani, you will live in the east.
LANI
But, uncle!
Pono frowns.
PONO
Father, why must we be separated?
KEAWE
Because I don’t want Lani getting pregnant just yet. I might have to marry her to someone else first for political reasons. You can also marry her later.
Pono and Lani take their leave as Lani whispers angrily.
LANI
Your father can separate us but he can’t keep me from getting pregnant.
Pono has a worried look on his face.
The trade winds fail, reducing the rainfall on and the output of the field system and taro (kalo) paddies, making matters worse. A Keawe supporter, Rebel Chief, addresses the FARMERS.
REBEL CHIEF
You people are not producing enough food.
FIRST FARMER
We’re trying our best. The trade winds are not bringing the moisture the crops need.
Rebel Chief pulls a shark-teeth-lined war club from his loincloth and swings it at the First Farmer, tearing his neck open. The First Farmer drops.
REBEL CHIEF
If I hear any more excuses, more of you will die. Get back to work.
The Farmers go back to work, clearly upset about their co-worker’s death and angry about being blamed for the crop failure. As the Rebel Chief leaves, the Second Farmer mutters to himself
SECOND FARMER
It is our king’s disrespect for the gods that has created this desert, not us.
The drought continues and the famine is worse. The land is brown and dying. Commoners are begging Nobles wearing red and yellow colored feathered capes for food and being refused.
Keawe’s health declines. He looks terrible as he tours his kingdom in a procession of his COURT lead by a RETAINER BLOWING on a conch (pu) and a CHANTING Priest. Keawe falters and collapses. First Husband witnesses the collapse and hurries off.
First Husband approaches Pono.
PONO
Have you heard? Father is sending Lani and I to live in different districts.
FIRST HUSBAND
Your father just collapsed. He’s very sick.
PONO
What?
FIRST HUSBAND
Listen to me. I want you to visit your Mother to let her know about Keawe’s failing health. Maybe she can help. This month she is at the women’s temple (heiau) she founded near Upland Village.
PONO
Why is Mother there?
FIRST HUSBAND
She teaches healing this time of year.
PONO
I’ll leave immediately, Uncle.
FIRST HUSBAND
Take Kea with you. Leave Umio here. And stay away from the virgins your mother is training.
Pono smiles.
Pono goes with Kea to tell PONO’S MOTHER (40’s), Keawe’s highest ranking wife, about their father’s failing health. The temple is staffed by VIRGINS who have not reached the menarche.
Rainbows frequently reach the ground in this vicinity, creating the illusion of blood red rain, and signifying that the area is sacred.
KEA
The rainbows and blood red rain around here are amazing. I can see why your Mother chose this sacred location for her temple.
Pono reverently approaches Pono’s Mother. They hug.
PONO
Mother, Father is very ill. Uncle has asked that you see if you can help Father.
PONO’S MOTHER
I will. Pono, this is a very dangerous time. I want you to be careful. Your other half brothers are jealous of your talents.
PONO
I will, Mother.
PONO’S MOTHER
I know your heart is not in it, but you must learn how to protect yourself.
PONO
I will, Mother.
PONO’S MOTHER
I want you and Kea to promise you will take care of Umio, too. As my only other son, I want him to be safe and happy.
PONO
He’s being a jerk, but I promise.
Kea nods.
PONO’S MOTHER
On your way then. And both of you leave my virgins alone.
Pono and Kea smile and take their leave.
Keawe is on his deathbed. He is surrounded by chanting Priests and crying WIVES, CHILDREN, and RETAINERS. The Counselor is also present. Pono’s Mother shakes her head sadly at them as Pono, Umio, and Kea enter the room.
KEAWE
My gods have shown me the error in my ways. I should never have deposed my brother. Nothing good has come of it. I must put things right before I die. Bring my brother’s granddaughter to me.
Lani is ushered into the room.
KEAWE
Lani, here, before my family, I want everyone to hear that I want you to be the next queen.
Lani is surprised, but smiles. Keawe turns his head to Pono.
KEAWE
Pono, I want you to govern with Lani.
PONO
Thank you, Father. Uh, I want to learn the arts of warfare before I share the throne. May I have a year to become proficient?
Lani frowns.
KEAWE
All right then, take Kea and Naika with you. Kanaloa will serve as Lani’s regent until you are proficient as a warrior. And, for political reasons, both you and Kanaloa will then marry Lani.
PONO
What? I mean yes, Father.
Lani’s frown deepens.
LANI
(whispering to Pono)
Why do you want to postpone our marriage? What are you afraid of?
PONO
(whispering to Lani)
I need to learn how to defend myself first, before I become a king. Remember what happened to your great grandfather’s rival and to your own grandfather?
It is clear that Lani is not satisfied with Pono’s answer. Pono and Lani take their leave.
Pono, Umio, Naika, and Kea say goodbye to their Auntie, Uncles, and Mothers. One by on they hug and rub noses.
PONO
Well, I guess this is it.
PONO’S MOTHER
Be careful.
PONO
Don’t worry. We’ll have a good teacher.
PONO’S MOTHER
You’ll be passing by the volcano, Grandmother (tutu) Pele’s home. Be sure to make an offering of red berries.
PONO
We will.
Pono, Umio, Naika, and Kea begin to leave.
Pono, Umio, Naika, and Kea see Lani. Pono approaches her.
PONO
(jesting)
Good day, Your Majesty. I was looking for you.
LANI
(unhappily)
Be serious. (beat) I’m really going to miss you.
PONO
(resigned)
The year will go by before we know it.
LANI
(sobbing)
But I need you here.
Pono grabs Lani.
PONO
I love you and I need you, too. Don’t worry. Kanaloa will take care of the ruling stuff until I return.
KEA
(nodding at Pono)
And we will take care of him.
Pono and Lani rub noses and the men leave.
Lani returns home to collect her possessions and is confronted by Lani’s Mother.
LANI’S MOTHER
You must be very upset.
LANI
(wryly)
Why should I be upset?
LANI’S MOTHER
Oh, my baby. Lani, you may be married to both Pono and Kanaloa, but it is important for you to have your first child with Pono. He is Keawe’s highest ranking son and I want my grandchildren to inherit a high rank, too.
LANI
I understand, Mother. I’ll be careful.
LANI’S MOTHER
Please do. It’s the only way to prevent your children from killing one another.
LANI
I will.
LANI’S MOTHER
So, no sex until Pono returns.
Lani frowns.
CUT TO:
Pono, Umio, Naika, and Kea walk south and then east along the King’s Trail as it crosses a lava moonscape at the edge of the island. They spot some red berries, pick them, and wrap the picked berries in a ti plant leaf.
As they approach a large crater, Pono holds their offering to the volcano goddess above his head and begins to CHANT. When they reach the edge of the crater, they peer into it.
Astonishment and awe render them mute for a while, and like statues, they stand fixed to the spot, with their eyes riveted on the abyss below.
Immediately before them yawns an immense gulf, in the form of a crescent, about two miles in length, from north-east to south-west, nearly a mile in width, and apparently 800 feet deep. The bottom is covered with lava, and the south-west and northern parts of it are one vast flood of red and yellow molten lava, in a state of terrific ebullition, rolling to and fro with fiery surges and flaming billows.
Pono comes to his senses, lowers their offering to the ground. They turn and continue along the King’s Trail.
The King’s Trail leads Pono, Umio, Naika, and Kea into a dark jungle. As they walk along, Umio stops.
UMIO
Someone is watching us.
PONO
Relax little brother. We’re in friendly territory.
They continue walking and come across two crossed staffs, each with a white ball atop (pahu kapu), the sign of a forbidden area.
PONO
Now, you can get nervous.
KEA
We should reach the Warrior School soon. To prevent misunderstandings, let’s carry a flag of peace.
Kea grabs a ti plant leaf and ties at the end of a staff to indicate that their intentions are peaceful.
As they turn a corner, they meet an old woman, PELE (pronounced, PELL-lay) (60). She is wearing a white robe and greets them with a smile.
PELE
Good evening.
Pono bows.
PONO
Good evening, madame.
PELE
You are Pono, aren’t you?
Pono is surprised.
PONO
Yes, I am. How did you…?
PELE
I heard from your mother that you would be coming this way. She wanted me to give you this.
She puts a pendant containing a tear-shaped piece of volcanic glass (Pele’s tear) in his hand.
PONO
Thank you.
PELE
It’s for good luck.
PONO
I will keep it safe.
PELE
You’d better continue your journey. The school is not too far that way.
The boys look down the trail. When they look back, Madam Pele is gone.
CUT TO:
Kanaloa is sitting with his Mother.
KANALOA’S MOTHER
Congratulations on being named regent. It’s a good first step.
KANALOA
Thanks, mother.
KANALOA’S MOTHER
Too bad you are not Lani’s favorite. How do you plan to get her pregnant?
KANALOA
I don’t have a plan yet.
KANALOA’S MOTHER
Would you like a suggestion?
KANALOA
Sure.
KANALOA’S MOTHER
Find a male pandanus (hala) tree that is fruiting. Collect some of the sweet-scented, yellow pollen. It’s an aphrodisiac. Dust her bedding with it and she will not be able to resist your advances.
KANALOA
Thanks. I will try that. I had heard the saying “When the hala is ripe, necks are red” (A pala ka hala, ‘ula ka ‘a‘i).
KANALOA’S MOTHER
It refers to the leis made from the ripe red fruitlets of the female hala tree, and to blushing. I want more than blushing to happen.
Kanaloa smiles.
CUT TO:
Pono, Umio, Naika, and Kea approach a Hawaiian fighting school (pa lua) which is laid out in the traditional manner. A central thatched building (hale kumu ka ‘aha) is surrounded by a low stone wall (pa) that has only one entrance and it is guarded by a GUARD.
The school’s altar (kuahu) is located at one end of the building. The altar is decorated with the seven plants traditionally used.
Pairs of STUDENTS are practicing the lua move, the blunted nose (ka-ihu-manumanu), in pairs. The moves involves the lua warrior and his opponent facing off as the opponent readies a punch with his right fist. When the opponent strikes, the lua warrior steps to his left side with his left foot while simultaneously deflecting his opponent’s right arm downward with his left arm. The lua warrior then counters with an uppercut to his opponent’s nostrils with his right fist.
The LUA MASTER (‘olohe lua) and two INSTRUCTORS walk among the students illustrating the correct way to perform the move. The flaps of all of their loincloths are tucked into their waist bands.
All the hair has been removed from Lua Master’s body and his body is covered with the coconut oil to make it difficult for an adversary to grip.
When the Lua Master sees the men approach, he signals to the Guard to allow them to enter. As they walk up to him.
LUA MASTER
Glad you made it. Let the class welcome you.
He shouts to the Students.
LUA MASTER
Let’s welcome these new students!
The Students form a line with an Instructor in front, all facing the new students, and perform a threatening BENT-KNEES DANCE (haka or ha’a).
The Instructor CHANTS aggressively, ritually threatening the newcomers, while the Students dance aggressively. Actions include facial contortions such as showing the whites of the eyes and poking out the tongue, and a wide variety of vigorous body actions such as slapping the hands against the body, stomping of the feet, and cries and grunts. Afterwards
LUA MASTER
That’s enough for today. Your sleeping house is the one on the left. Settle in.
Pono, Umio, Naika, and Kea walk toward their assigned house.
CUT TO:
THREE IRATE CHIEFS leave the Hawaiian queen’s compound. Lani and Kanaloa are alone.
LANI
Thanks for handling those irate chiefs for me. You are good at all this ruling stuff. And it was sweet of you to find the hala pollen for me.
KANALOA
Lani, we have to talk.
LANI
OK.
KANALOA
I am supposed to have my first children with you, even if they won’t be as high-ranking as your children with Pono.
LANI
That’s what I hear, too.
KANALOA
My problem is that all the women around here are refusing to have sex with me until you have a child with Pono.
Lani smiles.
LANI
I think we can do something about that.
KANALOA
What?
LANI
Lie back and I’ll show you.
Lani performs oral sex on Kanaloa under a kapa sheet. When Kanaloa groans, they sit up.
KANALOA
That was a very good idea. Can we do that a couple of times a week?
Lani nods and they both smile.
CUT TO:
Pono, Umio, Naika, and Kea have joined the other Students. The Lua Master motions for them all to sit.
LUA MASTER
You were all born inheriting the spiritual power of your ancestors. Thus, Pono and Umio, being full brothers, inherited the same amount of spiritual power.
Umio smirks.
LUA MASTER
Here you will learn to add to that spiritual power through devotion to the gods of the Hawaiian warrior and learning the teachings of this calling. First, we will tour the school. Follow me.
The Class follows the Lua Master through the school as he points at and describes the relevance of each of its facilities. At the completion of the tour, the Lua Master points to short spears leaning against a wall.
LUA MASTER
Now, I want each of you to grab a short spear and jog to the beach and back. Hold your spears vertically. When you return, store the spears and form pairs.
The Students do as they are told.
When they return, Pono pairs up with Kea.
LUA MASTER
First, you will learn boxing.
PONO
Can I learn wrestling instead?
Pono gets into a wrestling crouch.
LUA MASTER
(smiling)
It is true, you ARE too pretty to become a professional boxer, but you must learn the basics.
The Lua Master puts Pono and Kea in the proper stance: facing each other, with their arms straight and slightly in front of their sides, fists clenched, wrists bent backward, curled fingers to the front.
LUA MASTER
Now, try to hit the head of your opponent with your right fist. Neither of you is allowed to dodge the blow. The last man standing wins.
The Lua Master wanders off to monitor the other boxing Students. Pono and Kea go at it, alternatively bashing each other on the side of the head.
Kea celebrates when he knocks Pono down.
Lani and Kanaloa are in bed again. She is performing oral sex under a cover. Kanaloa is smiling.
KANALOA
This is really solving my problem.
Lani mumbles.
Pono paces back and forth and then stops with a worried look on his face.
PONO
Our grandfather killed his brother, the king, so he could reign. And our father killed his brother for the same reason.
Pono tightens his loincloth.
PONO
Not a job that guarantees good health, it appears. (Beat). And I have so many brothers.
KEA
(smiling)
Though I am your favorite.
PONO
I’m not worried about you. And I don’t like the idea that Kanaloa and I both will be married to Lani. She’s my girl.
KEA
I don’t know why you’re upset. Your Auntie has two husbands and they seem to do OK. I mean, really, what could go wrong?
Pono and Kea are sitting on a log eating three-finger poi for dinner.
PONO
I’m exhausted.
KEA
No one said this was going to be easy. I hear that tomorrow we’ll be doing some exercises to increase our flexibility and strength.
After breakfast, the Lua Master shows the Students how to leap, crawl, dodge, hang from their legs and arms, perform somersaults, and bend backwards. Pono is obviously out of shape.
LUA MASTER
We’ll be doing that every morning.
PONO
(wryly)
Sounds like fun.
LUA MASTER
Next, you will learn some anatomy.
The Lua Master leads the Students to a patch of sandy ground and with a spear draws in the sand the outline of a human body and then marks major internal organs with pebbles.
LUA MASTER
This is where the lungs are. A stab with a dagger here will cause a lot of bleeding. This is where the heart is. A stab here will drop an opponent and he will die. This is where the liver is. It will bleed a lot if punctured. Down here are the intestines. A stab here will cause a slow, painful death.
PONO
(aside to Kea)
He certainly has a unique perspective on anatomy.
CUT TO:
Lani and Kanaloa are having oral sex again under a kapa sheet. This time Kanaloa’s head is under the sheet. When she moans, Kanaloa sits up.
KANALOA
You must miss Pono a lot.
LANI
I really do. And I don’t understand why I am kept in isolation. It makes me so angry.
KANALOA
I hope you can have some fun. I am sure Pono is enjoying being the crown prince.
LANI
I am trying to enjoy being queen, but I am so lonely.
Kanaloa gives Lani a hug. She does not see an evil smile on his face.
CUT TO:
The Students are sitting in a semicircle when the Lua Master enters with High Priest.
LUA MASTER
Today, you are going to have some instruction in a competitive skill every noble must possess: oratory.
Lua Master nods to High Priest.
HIGH PRIEST
Your life may depend some day on a contest of wit. Like games of skill such as arrow throwing or checkers, tests of strength and endurance such as boxing or wrestling, and warfare-related skills such as sling-stone and spear throwing, contests of wit are often used to settle rivalries between chiefs.
The Students’ brows are furrowed.
HIGH PRIEST
Often, contests of wit depend upon the art of riddling. So, today, we are going to review some common riddles. I will make the challenge and you are to provide the answer.
The Students look at each other and smile.
HIGH PRIEST
Here’s the first riddle: My spring suspended in the air.
The Students ponder. Pono raises his hand and the High Priest points at him.
PONO
A coconut.
The High Priest smiles and nods.
HIGH PRIEST
My house has one beam and two doors.
Kea raises his hand.
KEA
Your nose.
The High Priest nods.
HIGH PRIEST
Eating and grumbling.
The Students have quizzical looks.
HIGH PRIEST
A water gourd. As one drinks, the water gurgles.
The Students smile to one another.
HIGH PRIEST
Pono has been practicing and is already pretty good at this. He will state some challenges for you.
Pono rises, smiling.
PONO
My double canoe has ten noses.
Hands shoot up.
The Lua Master and the Students are standing at the top of a sledding slide. The slide is about 200 yards long with a foundation of small stones that are covered with dirt which is in turn covered with an upper layer of grass. It is steep at the top and transitions to level at the bottom. The Lua Master holds a two-runner lava sled (papa hōlua) that is twelve feet long and six inches wide.
LUA MASTER
This week you’ll learn sledding, another competitive pastime of the nobility. You must be able to ride the sled head first on your stomach, on your knees, and standing as you would ride a surf board. Watch as I demonstrate.
The Lua Master takes a running start and rides the sled to the bottom of the slide, achieving a speed of about 50 miles per hour.
When he reaches the bottom, a SCHOOL SLAVE carries the sled up to the top.
One of the Students gives it a try and crashes.
LUA MASTER
Practice makes perfect.
Umio, Naika, and Kea approach Pono who is in bed.
UMIO
It’s time for some rest and relaxation. Let’s visit the local village. I hear the women are friendly there.
PONO
Thanks, guys. I miss Lani too much. You go on.
Umio, Naika, and Kea wander off.
CUT TO:
Kanaloa is lying on a pile of mats next to a sitting Lani. Kanaloa rises and has Lani drink kava (awa) after she finishes.
KANALOA
Lani, try some of this awa. It will help you relax.
LANI
All right.
She takes a sip.
LANI
It sure is bitter.
KANALOA
The taste improves when you drink more. Let me give you a massage.
Lani drinks more and Kanaloa begins to massage her hands.
LANI
I’m getting so sleepy.
KANALOA
Rest your head on my lap.
Lani passes out and Kanaloa has vaginal sex with her under a sheet.
Lani wakes up in Kanaloa’s house. He is sitting next to her.
LANI
I’m so groggy. What happened?
KANALOA
You fell asleep.
LANI
Did we have sex?
KANALOA
Yes.
LANI
No more of that.
KANALOA
I hear Pono is having plenty of sex at school.
Lani frowns.
LANI
I don’t care.
Lani rolls over to her side, facing away from Kanaloa.
Lani is alone with her Mother.
LANI’S MOTHER
You are pregnant! How did that happen?
Lani bursts out crying.
LANI
I didn’t want to but Kanaloa and I had sex. Just once.
Lani throws up.
LANI’S MOTHER
That seems to have been enough.
LANI
What should I do?
Lani’s Mother shakes her head.
LANI’S MOTHER
Abortions are dangerous. You will have to deliver this child. This could ruin everything.
LANI
(sobbing)
I know.
CUT TO:
The Students learn how to use shark-teeth-lined war clubs. Kea practices with Pono. Kea stands ready, concealing his war club (leiomano) behind his back. In slow motion, Pono attacks Kea with a dagger (pahoa).
SIDESTEPPING Kea steps to the left and pushes Pono’s arm that is holding the thrusting dagger down and to the right. Kea then swings his war club up along Pono’s arm and simulates slashing it across Pono’s face. Kea accidentally cuts into Pono’s left eyebrow and it BLEEDS down his face.
PONO
You are good at that.
KEA
Practice makes perfect.
The Students learn how to use slings.
LUA MASTER
Slings are used to throw stones at your opponent from a distance. Before use, your sling can be stored wrapped around your waist. Try it.
The Students wrap their slings around their waists and tie them.
LUA MASTER
It’s critical that you select hard, dense stones to throw with your sling. You will be able to bring some to the battlefield, but you’ll need to find others there. Do not use stones you find on cinder cones (pu’u). They are too soft and light. Here are some excellent sling stones. See if you can hit those targets.
The Students unwrap their slings and attempt to use them, very ineffectively at first.
Naika places a stone in his sling and lays his sling over his shoulder, gripping it with his left hand behind his back. STRETCHING the sling tight using both hands, his left hand releases the sling, which he then swings around his head once with his right hand, and releases. The stone hits its target and Naika smiles.
The Students learn how food is produced both in irrigated taro paddies (lo’i) and in dry land systems.
CUT TO:
Lani is going through labor.
LANI’S MOTHER
Push! Again!
LANI
Ooow!
Lani delivers the first BOY.
LANI’S MOTHER
It’s a boy. Wait. There’s another one. It’s two boys. Twins.
Lani holds a Boy in each arm. They both have flaming red hair.
LANI’S MOTHER
There will be no doubt about who their father is. You can hold them for a while, but we need to get them to their foster parents before Pono returns. You’ll need some time to work things out with him. Inspect them carefully, so you can tell others which one was born first.
Lani nods sadly.
Kanaloa meets with his supporters. Kanaloa’s Mother is caring for the infant Boys.
COUNSELOR
Congratulations! Two healthy sons, one of whom, with any luck, will be our next king.
Kanaloa’s Mother is beaming.
KANALOA’S MOTHER
That one is the first born.
Kanaloa stares at the Boys with a smile on his face, which turns into a frown.
KANALOA
I’m worried about Lani. Her body is hot and she’s not feeling well.
KANALOA’S MOTHER
A little fever. She’ll be fine.
The Students return home. Lani runs up to Pono.
LANI
I have missed you so much!
PONO
Me, too. I am so horny I could burst.
LANI
Let’s go to our special place.
Pono beams and they run off together holding hands.
Lani and Pono are in the water, naked.
LANI
Pono. I have something to tell you.
PONO
What is it, my love?
LANI
While you were away, I accidentally got pregnant by Kanaloa. I had twin boys.
Pono is shocked.
PONO
Is there any thing else you want to tell me?
LANI
No. Other than I really want to have children with you, higher ranking children who will become the next king or queen.
PONO
That’s exactly what we will do after I pass the kingship tests.
Pono confronts Kanaloa.
PONO
Lani told me about your twins.
KANALOA
Are you going to congratulate me?
PONO
No. But I’m not all that upset either. Those boys will end up serving the next king or queen, who will be my child.
KANALOA
(snarkily)
Of course.
It’s New Year’s Festival time again.
The CROWD cheers as Pono competes and wins a foot race.
Kanaloa reviews the situation with his Counselor.
COUNSELOR
Pono is one popular guy.
KANALOA
Pono is getting all too popular. That could be dangerous to our plans.
KANALOA
(wryly)
I think it’s time for him to “pass” his kingship tests.
Counselor smirks.
Kanaloa walks over to Pono.
KANALOA
Congratulations! I have heard good things about your training. I think it is time for you to become king. We have to go through the kingship tests first, but it’s just a formality, of course.
PONO
I am ready, brother. Bring them on.
They walk away together.
Kanaloa tests Pono. The first test is boxing, which Kanaloa conducts himself. Lani is watching.
KANALOA
The first test will be boxing. I’ll be Pono’s opponent.
Before Pono can react, Kanaloa swings his fist and slugs Pono in the face, bloodying his nose.
PONO
(in between blows)
Brother, I thought we had agreed that I didn’t have to learn boxing.
KANALOA
A king must be prepared for all contingencies.
Kanaloa swings and slugs Pono in the face again. The match proceeds. Pono finally knocks Kanaloa down, winning the match. As Kanaloa gets up
KANALOA
Congratulations! You have passed the boxing test. Now for spear throwing.
Kanaloa arranges a spear throwing contest. Lani and Kea are watching.
PONO
Brother, I haven’t become an expert in spear throwing, but I am proficient at spear dodging.
KANALOA
Then, spear dodging it is. Stand over there.
Kanaloa throws a spear at Pono, who catches it.
KANALOA
Good catch! Let’s go to the beach for the rest of the test.
Pono walks off toward the beach, still holding the spear, with the others following him.
At points along the trail, increasing numbers of WARRIORS (four then eight, then 16) throw spears at Pono, which he wards off.
At the beach, the final phase of the spear dodging test occurs. Hidden Warriors rise in front and on two sides of Pono. In addition to Lani and Kea, a Crowd has gathered.
LANI
Kanaloa. Is this fair?
KANALOA
(aside to Lani)
Do you want to have children with Pono?
First, forty spears are thrown and Pono is not hit by a single one of them.
KANALOA
You are good at this!
Then, more Warriors arise and throw eighty spears at Pono simultaneously, which is dodges.
The only injury Pono receives is that he pricks himself with his own spear on an ankle.
PONO
Ouch!
KANALOA
You passed the spear dodging contest. The next test is surfing.
The Crowd CHEERS.
The Crowd follows Pono and Kanaloa to a big wave surfing beach. Everyone is impressed that the waves are 20 feet high. The sound of the waves breaking on the shore is deafening.
PONO
Whoa!
KANALOA
Nice waves today.
PONO
I’d say.
KANALOA
Ride one of those suckers back to the beach and you pass the test.
Pono paddles out and rides a large wave back to shore. Kanaloa is disappointed but tries not to show it.
KANALOA
The next test is oratory.
Kanaloa leads Pono, Kea, and Lani to the home of an expert in oratory.
The expert lives in a house that is surrounded by a fence made up of the bones of those he has vanquished.
KANALOA
The only way I could arrange for this test was to wager your bones. Sorry.
Pono looks at the fence.
PONO
I see he wins a lot.
KANALOA
I heard you like a challenge. Go on in; he’s expecting you.
Pono, Kea, Lani, and Kanloa walk into the house.
The EXPERT (50) is an old man dressed in a loincloth. He is sitting on a mat.
EXPERT
Welcome.
PONO
Thanks.
EXPERT
Let’s start with some easy riddles:
The rain spreads the net; the wind drives it in.
PONO
Candle nut. It ripens after the rainy season and falls when the wind blows.
The Expert nods.
PONO
Here is a riddle for you: Gathered up like the feathers on the head of a bird; a proud adornment; the bird rests for eight months; on the ninth, it flies.
EXPERT
Cultivating a garden; the owner’s pride; the period of ripening; eating the fruit.
In hushed terms, the two continue trying to best one another. Finally, the Expert speaks to Kanaloa.
EXPERT
We are evenly matched. Too bad. I still need some more bones for my fence.
Kanaloa is disappointed, but puts on a smiling face and speaks to the Expert.
KANALOA
I guess that’s it. Thanks.
Kanloa turns to Pono.
KANALOA
Congratulations, Your Majesty.
A large CROWD has gathered in front of Lani’s residence. Kanaloa addresses the Crowd.
KANALOA
Pono has passed the tests and has the skills required to become the king. I present him our father’s standard as our new king.
Kanaloa presents the feathered standard (kāhili) to Pono and the Crowd cheers.
KANALOA
Tomorrow, we marry Lani.
Lani is married to Pono and Kanaloa in a festive ceremony attended by NOBLES. They sit on a dais surrounded by hundreds of ONLOOKERS and are presented with tribute: roasted pigs and dogs, containers of poi, sweet potatoes, and sugar cane.
A troop of WOMAN HULA DANCERS entertain the crowd with a HULA.
BOXERS also entertain the crowd swinging at one another.
While everyone feasts and celebrates the marriages, Pono calls Counselor over.
PONO
We are not going to be needing your services any more. I suggest you find someone else to advise.
KING’S COUNSELOR
But, your majesty, I was your father’s counselor, and your brother’s.
PONO
And I thank you for your service. Now leave.
The Counselor leaves with a scowl on his face.
Pono and Lani visit the Northern Field System.
The trade winds have returned, and with them the fog-drip irrigation water needed by the crops. Even the hillsides are an emerald green.
Pono is “on top of the world” and feels that everything is going his way.
FARMER
Your Majesty. The rains have returned. Our crops are growing.
PONO
That’s wonderful. The kingdom is on the right track. Lani, it is time to start our family.
CUT TO:
Dr. Pelham and the Old Hawaiian are still at it.
DR. PELHAM
What a relief! I was getting worried.
OLD HAWAIIAN
There is more. Remember the High Priest’s predictions?
DR. PELHAM
About how there will be a time when Pono has no friends?
OLD HAWAIIAN
And about when Naika will die.
DR. PELHAM
Then, please continue. This is great.
CUT TO:
A CROWD is milling around a ceremonial white kapa tent. Pono and Lani enter the tent where Pono is supposed to impregnate her. Outside the tent, Pono’s Mother CHANTS prayers for the union. This goes on for a while.
When Pono attempts to leave under the edge of the tent, he is dragged back into the tent (by a leg) by Lani who really wants this to work.
Later in the month, Lani sees she is having her period and is disappointed.
LANI’S MOTHER
I’m so sorry.
LANI
Mother, I’m afraid I can’t get pregnant by Pono.
LANI’S MOTHER
Getting pregnant can take time, sometime months. Be patient. But for now, you will have to have to spend time in the menstruation house.
As is the custom, Lani must stay in the compound for unclean women while she is menstruating and is teased about not being pregnant yet by the other WOMEN staying there.
FIRST WOMAN
Lani, are you sure you are holding your mouth right?
SECOND WOMAN
Lani, we thought you knew how to do this. Maybe if Pono tried while you were asleep.
Lani knocks out the Second Woman by swinging her RIGHT FIST against the woman’s head.
The white tent is set up again. Pono and Lani enter the tent holding hands as PRIESTS pray outside.
Again, Lani discovers she is not pregnant. Consoled by her Mother, Lani is beside herself with anguish.
LANI
I’ve got to get pregnant!
LANI’S MOTHER
It will happen. Have faith.
LANI
I’m worried. And Pono is getting very upset.
LANI’S MOTHER
Worst case is the twins will be your heirs.
LANI
Don’t even say that around Pono.
They hug.
Pono expresses his frustration to Kea as they sit on the beach. Pono is feeling (punalua) jealousy, that is, jealousy in a Hawaiian plural marriage.
PONO
I’m starting to get worried that I can’t get Lani pregnant.
KEA
Knowing you two, it will happen.
PONO
And Kanaloa is acting so self satisfied. It’s driving me crazy.
Kea pats Pono on the back.
KEA
Let’s get out of here and do some surfing.
They head out with their surf boards.
CUT TO:
Pono’s adversaries regroup and try to get rid of him.
REBEL CHIEF
Pono’s not being able to have children with Lani is a sign from the gods. You have to get rid of him.
KANALOA
He’s too good at self defense and Kea has his back. We need to get creative.
REBEL CHIEF
What about poison?
KANALOA
I have a few other things to try first.
Kanaloa again tries to seduce Lani.
KANALOA
Lani, I hear you want to have another child. I’m here to help.
LANI
No thanks, Kanaloa. You’ve helped enough already.
KANALOA
Maybe the gods don’t want you to get pregnant again.
Lani frowns.
CUT TO:
Kanaloa sets up a situation which makes it appears like Lani has a lover, and maybe she does.
PONO
I need to meet Kanaloa up country. The forest clearing operation there is not going fast enough.
LANI
All you two do is work. When are we going to have some fun? I’m taking surfing lessons from a young man named Hea that Kanaloa introduced me to.
PONO
Who is he? Why a guy?
LANI
He is the son of a couple Kanaloa’s Mother knows. A very nice boy. You don’t have to worry about him. He tells me he is in love with another guy.
PONO
That does not make me any less jealous. Remember, our great grandfather, Liloa (pronounced LEE- low-ah), was in love with another guy. (Beat.) I rest my case.
LANI
Oh, you’re being unreasonable!
Lani leaves, angry.
Pono and Kanaloa are supervising COMMONERS clearing of a part of the upland forest near the Upland Village and constructing ditches to irrigate the crops that will be grown there. Lani is there, too.
PONO
Cutting these trees down and burning them is taking longer than we expected. We have to these irrigated gardens on line as soon as possible.
KANALOA
I agree. With lower rainfall, this effort is critical. I’ll have more workers brought in.
LANI
All you two do is work. When are we going to have some fun? I am going surfing.
Lani leaves for the beach. Kanaloa smiles surreptitiously.
Pono decides he should put some distance between Lani and potential lovers.
PONO
I hear the food situation is getting worse on the island of Oahu. Let’s travel there to see for ourselves what they are doing about the problem.
LANI
I would prefer to learn how to surf, but OK.
They begin preparations for the trip.
CUT TO:
Pono and Lani attempt to travel to Oahu with their PADDLERS and RETAINERS on several double canoes. As they are passing a Neighbor Island, the sky darkens.
CHIEF PADDLER
Sire, a storm is forming. We should wait it out.
PONO
I agree. Head for shore.
They land on the Neighbor Island as the storm hits.
Pono and Lani are playing Hawaiian checkers (konane) on a stone board at the base of a cliff when Hea calls down.
HEA
Lani, your lover sends you his kisses.
Lani attempts to distract her husband but he hears Hea faintly, too, he thinks.
PONO
What was that?
LANI
Three pawns. I am winning.
PONO
I meant the guy.
Lani appears to be self-conscious, confirming to Pono what he thinks he has heard.
LANI
Your move.
In anger, Pono hits Lani on the head with the board and Lani falls down, bleeding and seemingly lifeless.
PONO
Oh, my god.
Lani’s Retainers rush to her fallen body.
RETAINER
She’s dead.
Pono rushes off sobbing.
Pono approaches a couple of Paddlers.
PONO
You two, take me to Kauai.
FIRST PADDLER
Kauai? Right now? The storm is still dangerous. And the distance is greater.
PONO
I don’t care.
Pono sails for the island of Kauai in a double canoe with his Paddlers in the middle of the storm, leaving his Retainers behind. The canoe contains an invaluable collection of feathered cloaks and his even more valuable feathered standard.
In the double canoe, Pono is acting strange.
PONO
When we get there, I want to go see the Trunkless Koa Tree, alone.
FIRST PADDLER
Yes, Sire.
The double canoe continues on course.
CUT TO:
Surprisingly, Lani is recovering. She is approached by a lessor member of their traveling party, OTHER LANI.
OTHER LANI
My queen, I’m the innocent cause of this situation. My name is Lani, too. Hea is my lover. He was calling to me.
LANI
You’re his lover? He was calling to you?
OTHER LANI
Yes, my queen.
Lani is exasperated.
LANI
Great. What a mess! Leave me.
The Other Lani quickly takes her leave. Lani’s Retainers don’t know what to think.
CUT TO:
A RUNNER approaches from the shoreline.
RUNNER
Kanaloa, Lani is dead. Pono has killed her.
KANALOA
What? How did it happen?
RUNNER
He got angry and hit her.
KANALOA
Are you sure?
RUNNER
Yes.
KANALOA
Oh, my god! I never expected this!
Kanaloa gets angry.
KANALOA
He can’t get away with this. Pono is not fit to be king. We’ll raise an army.
CUT TO:
Pono’s double canoe is pulled up on the beach by Paddlers while Pono wades through the surf.
Pono strides up the beach muttering to himself while the Paddlers wait for instructions.
FIRST PADDLER
The King is acting very strange.
SECOND PADDLER
I would act strange, too, if I had just killed my wife, the queen. Let’s stay with the canoe. Maybe he’ll get better and return.
First Paddler nods.
Pono is crying, stumbling along a trail into the forest carrying a stone ax. It is raining.
He is watched by an unknown man, MANA (18), who begins to follow him. Eventually, Pono sees Mana on the trail behind him.
PONO
Who are you? Why are you following me?
MANA
My name is Mana. Your paddlers were not following you, so I decided to help. Where do you want to go?
PONO
I want to find the Trunkless Koa Tree and make a spear from it. Can you guide me there?
Upon hearing Pono’s strange request, Mana hesitates.
MANA
Uh, yes, I can. Follow me.
Mana takes the lead. They walk a long way in the rain and come to a lava tube cave.
MANA
Let’s stop here for the night. It’s dry.
Pono nods and continues mumbling to himself and crying. He lies down in the cave. Mana hands Pono a peeled banana and eats the skin.
It’s still raining. Hard. Both mens’ kapa loincloths are drenched and in tatters. Pono is shivering. Mana leads Pono to a misshapen koa tree. The tree’s large branches appear to sprout out of the ground.
MANA
That is the tree you are seeking.
Pono sits down, oblivious to the rain, and looks at the tree.
PONO
Thank you.
After a while, Pono cuts off a straight, spear-length branch of the tree with his stone ax.
PONO
I feel better now. I accidentally killed my wife.
MANA
Sorry to hear that. You look miserable.
PONO
I feel terrible. (beat) You are a good man. Would you accompany me on my journey to Oahu?
MANA
I would be happy to. We can obtain new loincloths on the coast. Let’s go back to the cave and get some rest.
Pono nods and they walk back down the trail. Mana carries the branch.
The next morning Pono and Mana walk back to the canoe. When they reach the canoe, Pono speaks to the Paddlers.
PONO
Making sure no one steals my canoe?
The Paddlers cringe.
PONO
Find new loincloths for my new friend and I.
The Paddlers search for and find the loincloths and hand them to Pono and Mana who put them on. Pono dons his feathered cape.
PONO
Take us to the Oahu King’s Compound. When we get there, do not tell them who I am if you want to be alive afterwards.
The Paddlers nod and launch the double canoe as Pono and Mana clamber aboard.
Pono speaks with Mana as the Paddlers paddle.
PONO
The king of Oahu, King Kaku, may have heard of my predicament. My goal is to convince him not to invade Hawaii while we are in disarray.
Mana nods.
MANA
How are you going to do that?
PONO
I’ll find out once we’re there.
CUT TO:
After she recovers, Lani makes a decision.
LANI
I want to find Pono. Take me back to Leeward Village.
Lani and her Paddlers and Retainers board their double canoes and head back to Hawaii, looking for Pono.
Lani’s head is bandaged.
When Lani reaches Hawaii, she seeks out her Mother.
LANI
Is Pono here?
LANI’S MOTHER
Thank the gods you are still alive!
LANI
A little worse for wear, but I’m alive.
LANI’S MOTHER
What happened?
LANI
It was an accident.
Lani’s mother scowls.
LANI’S MOTHER
That’s not what I heard.
LANI
It won’t happen again. He needs me.
LANI’S MOTHER
Well, anyway, a rebellion is occurring. Pono’s being deposed by his brothers and the district chiefs.
LANI
What do you mean “rebellion?”
LANI’S MOTHER
Kanaloa and the rest of them think Pono has killed you and have raised an army to defeat him.
LANI
Tell them I am alive. I have to get to South Point to talk to Kea.
Lani prepares to sail south and consult with Kea.
Lani and her Paddlers and Retainers board their double canoes and head toward South Point.
CUT TO:
Pono and Mana jump out of Pono’s double canoe. Pono’s Paddlers pull his double canoe onto an Oahu beach near the Oahu King’s Compound. The canoe is flying the feathered standard that is the symbol of the nobility of the Hawaii Kingdom.
Pono and Mana are ushered by GUARDS into the presence of Counselor. Pono is wearing a feathered cape exhibiting diamond shapes indicating he is from the Kingdom of Hawaii. He is surprised by his welcome.
COUNSELOR
Welcome stranger. I see you are from Hawaii. What is your business here?
PONO
I’ve come to visit the king. I want to challenge him to a word game.
Counselor does not look into Pono’s eyes. He steps backward.
COUNSELOR
The King loves word game challenges. But tonight, a kila contest is scheduled. Please join in. We can set up a word game contest tomorrow.
PONO
Thank you. I will.
COUNSELOR
I warn you, the King excels at word games.
Pono smiles.
The Counselor motions for the Guards to leave.
COUNSELOR
Really, Pono, why are you here?
Pono pushes Counselor against the wall.
PONO
That is my business. If you tell King Kahu who I am, I’ll kill you.
Pono steps back. Counselor nods.
COUNSELOR
I believe you.
The Counselor smiles painfully and leaves.
Pono huddles with Mana.
PONO
The Counselor knows me.
MANA
Who is he?
PONO
He was a counselor to my father. I dismissed him when I became the king.
MANA
Is he a threat?
PONO
Yes. He’s not to be trusted. If King Kaku recognizes me, I may be killed.
MANA
Over my dead body.
PONO
I’m sure that could be arranged.
Pono walks into a room filled with NOBLES and BEAUTIFUL WOMEN. They are playing kilu to see who will sleep with whom that night. The king of Oahu, KING KAKU (30) is also playing.
Pono sits in the line of five male players opposite five female players facing each other in front of the spectators. The floor between them is covered with matting. In front of each Player is a conical block of heavy wood.
When the game starts, two Women begin flirting with Pono and competing with one another to win him for the night. One of the Women is a chiefess from Kaui, OHAI (pronouced Oh-HIGH). She is heavily tattooed.
By the end of the evening, Ohai wins Pono. They huddle.
OHAI
Sorry to be so pushy. I’m from Kaui. Tomorrow I’m on my way to Hawaii to consummate an arranged political marriage. I need help forgetting about that.
PONO
Let’s go to the beach.
They leave the compound talking with one another.
Pono and Oahi are reclining on the beach.
OHAI
I am so sorry to hear about Lani. Come here you poor guy.
They are attracted to one another and make love. Afterwards,
PONO
I feel better.
Ohai smiles.
OHAI
My pleasure.
PONO
You could do me a big favor. Do you know any new chants our host will not know?
OHAI
My new name chant. It was created before I left home.
PONO
Teach it to me.
Ohia teaches the CHANT to Pono.
The Counselor whispers to King Kahu.
COUNSELOR
Your guest from Hawaii has issued a word play challenge to you.
KING KAKU
Should I take him up on it? What can he wager?
COUNSELOR
He carries with him personal possessions that have some value.
KING KAKU
This will be fun. Show him to the guest house.
The Counselor leaves.
CUT TO:
Lani’s Paddlers land her canoe on a green sand beach.
She finds Kea, practicing his Hawaiian fighting moves, as usual.
He stops, surprised.
LANI
You’ve heard then.
Kea runs to hug Lani.
KEA
Yes, but I’m so glad the news was wrong.
LANI
I still love the idiot. What should we do?
KEA
We have to get Pono back here. We will need his eloquence to recruit chiefs to our side.
LANI
I’ll sail for Oahu and convince him to come back.
KEA
Meet me back here.
Lani nods and sets sail for Oahu with her Paddlers and Retainers.
Lani and her Paddlers and Retainers board their double canoes and head to Oahu.
CUT TO:
As Ohai prepares to leave for Hawaii to get married, she is approached by King Kaku. Three OAHU KING’S RETAINERS accompany King Kaku.
KING KAKU
Before you leave, do you know any new chants? I need one that no one else knows.
OHAI
How about my new name chant?
KING KAKU
Great! Teach it to my retainers, who will teach it to me.
OHAI
Of course.
Ohai teaches a part of the name chant to each of the Oahu King’s Retainers but does not tell them that she has also taught it to Pono.
Ohai leaves for Hawaii with OHAI’S PADDLERS in a double canoe. Pono is on the beach where he smiles and waves goodby. She winks and blows him a kiss.
Pono is ushered into the Ohau King’s Compound. He bows to King Kaku.
PONO
King Kaku, I’d like to challenge you to a word game.
KING KAKU
How about each of us reciting a chant about Kaui?
PONO
Let’s see. (beat) OK. What is the wager?
KING KAKU
How about the contents of my house versus the contents of your canoe?
Pono looks around.
PONO
Sounds fair.
KING KAKU
You go first.
Pono recites PONO’S NAME CHANT followed by the CHANT he has just learned.
King Kaku frowns at his Counselor and then rolls his eyes.
KING KAKU
(aside to Counselor)
Who is this man? What does he think he is?
When Pono finishes, King Kaku concedes.
KING KAKU
You win that round.
PONO
Let’s go outside, so my retainer can inventory the contents of your house.
They exit. When the Counselor attempts to follow them, Mana looks in Pono’s eyes. Pono nods his head to Mana, a sign he wants to kill Counselor. Mana hands Pono a war club and Pono kills Counselor.
When King Kaku starts to object
PONO
He disrespected me. He is mine. I want his bones.
King Kaku is upset, but resigned.
KING KAKU
Of course.
King Kaku does not know what to make of Pono. He thinks Pono is crazy and dangerous.
Pono and King Kaku are playing Hawaiian checkers when KING KAKU’S BODYGUARD enters.
KING KAKU’S BODYGUARD
Sire, a double canoe is approaching.
KING KAKU
When it lands, find out who it is.
KING KAKU’S BODYGUARD
Yes, Sire.
Lani’s double canoe is pulled up on the beach by her Paddlers. King Kaku’s Bodyguard approaches.
LANI
That is my husband’s canoe. Where is he?
King Kaku’s Bodyguard bows before the queen.
KING KAKU’S BODYGUARD
Welcome, heavenly one. He is playing checkers with King Kaku.
LANI
Lead me to him, but let me announce my presence.
King Kaku’s Bodyguard nods and leads her away.
King Kaku’s Bodyguard indicates that Pono is inside.
Lani begins to chant PONO’S NAME CHANT.
King Kaku and Pono hear Pono’s name chant being chanted. For a moment, Pono does not recognize Lani’s voice. Then, he does.
Tears well up in his eyes as he smiles at King Kaku and races outside.
Outside, Pono runs to Lani. They tearfully embrace. Pono holds Lani at arm’s length.
PONO
What? How?
LANI
You missed, you big idiot. After all that training.
Pono embraces Lani again.
PONO
I’m so glad. I’m so sorry.
They disengage.
LANI
Have you heard about the rebellion?
PONO
No. What do you mean?
LANI
All your brothers, except Kea, have raised a rebellion against you. They are unconcerned that I am actually alive. We have to get back.
PONO
We sail tomorrow.
Pono sweeps Lani up in his arms and carries her to the guest house. Over his shoulder, Pono shouts to King Kaku.
PONO
This is my wife.
King Kaku smiles and tells his Bodyguard.
KING KAKU
Those Hawaiian islanders are a strange people.
Pono and Lani sit together in one of the two double canoes in route to Hawaii island. They are both wearing feathered capes. Mana is in the other canoe.
LANI
Where did you pick up Mana?
PONO
On Kauai. He helped me when I was very despondent.
LANI
Good. That you were despondent and that he helped you.
Pono and Lani hug Kea and then sit down to consult with him. It is raining.
KEA
Welcome! We have quite a mess on our hands. Word is Kanaloa is organizing the revolt. All of the district chiefs who have committed to one side or the other have committed to him, except me of course.
LANI
Who is left?
KEA
(wincing)
The Kona chiefs.
PONO
Ouch! So, we’re outnumbered two to one.
KEA
So far, yes. Our only hope is for Pono to use his powers of persuasion on the Kona chiefs and their followers and convince them we can win.
PONO
Let’s get to work. How many warriors do you have?
KEA
About 10,000.
LANI
That’s a start. I will send a messenger to call a council of the chiefs in Kona. Let’s get some rest and meet with them there tomorrow.
They rise to leave.
Pono and Lani settle down for the night in a lean-to on the beach.
PONO
Do you think we can win?
LANI
We had better. You won’t last long if we don’t.
PONO
You’re right about that. But that’s tomorrow. Come here beautiful.
Lani smiles and Lani and Pono begin to make love.
Lani and Pono speak to the gathered KONA CHIEFS.
LANI
As you all can see, your queen is still very much alive. And Pono is still your king.
PONO
The rebellion will fail. We may be outnumbered, but the gods are on our side.
Some of the Kona Chiefs nod, but are not convinced.
PONO
In fact, the fewer of us, the greater share of honor to us each. We are a few; yet we are a happy few, a band of brothers. For whosoever fights with us will be part of my family and will be able to boast of our victories to his sons and grandsons.
LANI
As to our daughters and grand-daughters.
The Kona Chiefs cheer in agreement.
CUT TO:
Rebel leaders develop their plan.
KANALOA
I want our warriors to be spread along the western coast in small groups. When Pono returns, I want him killed.
REBEL GENERAL
I will make that happen.
They part.
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Pono and his SUPPORTERS see a dust cloud approaching from the direction from which the rebels would approach. It becomes clear that it is a GROUP of about 600 warriors that approach nearer and nearer. Pono whispers to Lani.
PONO
Be prepared to take to a canoe if we have to.
Kea orders his troops.
KEA
Surround the King and Queen!
Kea’s warriors form into a tight battle formation around Pono and Lani.
After some anxious moments, the Group halts about two hundred paces from Kea.
As the dust settles, a tall young chief wearing a feathered can and helmet emerges from the Group. At the end of his spears tied a large ti leaf, a token of peace.
Accompanied by two AIDES bearing weapons similarly bedecked, he boldly strides past the ranks of Pono’s warriors and asks for Pono. When he is conducted to Pono and, observing Lani beside her husband, speaks.
NAIKA
Cousins, I heard you were back and needed some help. I have with me a few brave warriors whose service I now pledge to you.
Ponol, Lani, and Kea smile. The Kona Chiefs relax.
PONO
Welcome, cousin. We are glad to see you, and your men. But are you not afraid to be my friend at a time like this? The whole island seems to be in arms against me.
NAIKA
I’m glad to be here. My fate is to long outlive this war.
Lani gives Naika a big hug.
Inspired by Naika’s appearance, more warriors rally to Pono’s side. Soon, warriors are streaming into the compound.
Pono, Lani, Kea, and Naika sit around a campfire and develop a battle plan.
PONO
Shouldn’t we try to get the word out to the rebels that Lani is not dead.
LANI
Somehow, I don’t think that is going to help. I think they know already, after my visit with my mother.
PONO
Well then, let’s stick to the high ground and duke it out when we have to. It goes without saying that Kea will be my general.
LANI
Our general.
KEA
OK, we’ll march at night and be ready for battle when the sun rises. We know the rebels are arrayed along the coast, so we’ll march to Ten Days Hill.
They all nod.
Pono’s army marches over a high saddle during the night and are arrayed in battle formation high on Ten Days Hill. Each warrior carries two unlit torches.
CUT TO:
Rebel warriors are asleep in small, separated groups along along the coast.
CUT TO:
With lit torches in their hands, Pono’s warriors proceed downhill toward the coast in battle formation. Pono and Lani are surrounded by their supporters.
LANI
How long before they notice us?
PONO
It won’t be long now.
CRIES go up as the rebels realize they are being attacked.
REBEL GENERAL
Pono has an army! How did that happen?
KANALOA
Quickly, gather our forces!
Rebel General sends out messengers and the rebels forces gather. Umio follows Kanaloa.
CUT TO:
The sun rises.
Both of the armies are arrayed in standard Hawaiian battle formations on a recent and hilly lava flow between the coast and Ten Days Hill.
Out front are skirmishers (huna lewa) carrying javelins (ihe). They are backed by a larger body (huna paa). Behind these come groups of perhaps a thousand veteran warriors each (waa kaua). Last come the mass of the rank-and-file soldiery (poe kaua). In their midst stand the leaders in feathered capes and helmets surrounded by their friends and images of their gods. The leaders are encircled by a royal bodyguard (papa-kaua) armed with pololu spears.
A pitched battle ensues. Pono’s forces are driven back by the larger REBEL FORCE. Kanaloa yells to the Rebel General.
KANALOA
The Queen is fighting on the other side! Let’s quit the pursuit to make sure she isn’t accidentally killed.
The Rebel General shouts to his Chiefs.
REBEL GENERAL
Hold your ground. No pursuit. Move your men to the north; get off this damned lava flow!
CUT TO:
In another part of the battlefield, a wounded Naika is taken prisoner by the Rebels.
REBEL CHIEF
Take him to Whale Hill Temple and sacrifice him to our war god. I want his bones.
Two Warriors hustle Naika off the battlefield as his colleagues retreat up Ten Day Hill.
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In the midst of the fog of war, Pono, Kea, and Lani consult.
PONO
There were a lot more of them that I thought.
KEA
We need to arrange things so we have to fight fewer of them at once.
LANI
How about we draw them in and then hit them from the flanks? If we can separate the leaders from the troops, the troops will quit and run.
Pono and Kea nod.
PONO
Where is Naika?
CUT TO:
Terrible, dry enhanced trade winds (mumuku) are blowing down the from the uplands. Dust is in the air.
Rebel Warriors lead Naika by a rope around his neck to the altar of Whale Hill Temple. Naika’s hands are bound. The REBEL PRIEST gives orders to the warriors.
REBEL PRIEST
Kill him.
Ascending the steps of the altar, Naika speaks.
NAIKA
I am ready, but it is not the will of the gods that I be offered.
The Rebel Priest responds sternly.
REBEL PRIEST
What do you know of the will of the gods?
NAIKA
And what do you know, since you have not inquired?
For a moment the Rebel Priest is disconcerted, but finally he answers.
REBEL PRIEST
You say it is not the will of the gods. Make it so appear, and your life will be spared; but if you fail your right eye will see the left in my hand, and you will be slain with torture.
NAIKA
So let it be!
Naika lifts his face upward and addresses a CHANT to the gods.
The winds die away and birds in the neighboring trees grow silent.
Concluding his prayer, Niaka folds his arms and steps down from the alter. By an unseen hand, the cords that had bound his hands have been cut. Naika approaches the Rebel Priest and bows before him.
The manifestation of the will of the gods cannot be mistaken. Naika is lead to a hut within the temple.
REBEL PRIEST
I suggest you remain in this sanctuary where you will be under my protection until you can leave in safety.
CUT TO:
The Rebels are drawn out by a trick: a small number of Pono’s men carrying two lighted torches each walk down slope.
Just before the decoys and the thin line of rebel forces meet, Pono attacks with a division from the north and Kea attacks with a division from the south. Naika joins the fray.
The Rebel General is captured by Pono and the remaining rebel forces flee to the north.
Pono’s warrior’s pursue the Rebels. Pono urges his Troops onward.
PONO
Push them up the Hill of Jealousy if you can.
Pono catches up with Kanaloa. They square off and fight. Pono has Kanaloa on the ground with the point of a spear against his throat. Naika is simulating grief at Kanaloa’s defeat, when Lani arrives.
LANI
No! Pono, please, no. He is the father of our children.
After hesitating for a moment, Pono withdraws his spear. At Pono’s command, Kanaloa is hauled off by Warriors.
Pono’s younger brother, Umio, is seen running to the east.
PONO
Looks like little brother is running back to our mother. I will visit her, too.
As Pono walks up hill toward the Women’s Temple, blood red rain falls.
When Pono reaches the Woman’s Temple and sees his Mother, Umio attempts to kill Pono with a spear which Pono dodges. Pono walks up to Umio with his own spear raised.
PONO’S MOTHER
Pono, please, please spare him. He is my only other son. I will punish him.
Pono lowers his spear.
In the final image of the main story, Pono walks through a much larger version of the Northern Field System, this time toward the Hill of Jealousy with he and Lani holding hands. The (now plumper) farmers cheer him again, this time as their leader.
!CUT TO:
Dr. Pelham is feverishly writing down the Old Hawaiian’s story and then finishes.
DR. PELHAM
That is a wonderful story. Is it true?
OLD HAWAIIAN
I am tired now. Thank you for writing down my story. Please give it to those who are collecting such stories.
DR. PELHAM
I will. You get some rest.
Dr. Pelham is seeing PATIENTS again. A HAWAIIAN WOMAN approaches him. The Hawaiian Woman looks a lot like Lani, but is older and is wearing simple skirt and blouse.
HAWAIIAN WOMAN
Dr. Pelham. Thank you for writing down my father’s story.
DR. PELHAM
I was happy to. How is he doing?
HAWAIIAN WOMAN
He has died.
DR. PELHAM
I am sorry to hear that. Did he tell you of the arrangement we have?
HAWAIIAN WOMAN
Yes, but I disapprove. They are not his bones; they are our family’s bones. We will bury him tonight.
DR. PELHAM
Is there anything I can offer you?
HAWAIIAN WOMAN
No.
DR. PELHAM
I understand.
Dr. Pelham sits outside his house reading the his notes in the moonlight.
He watches as the Hawaiian Woman and THREE HELPERS carry the shrouded body of the Old Hawaiian out of the village. They are also carrying three unlit torches.
He surreptitiously follows them into the quasi-darkness.
After walking for a time, the Hawaiian Woman and her Three Helpers reach an opening in the top of a burial cave. The burial cave is a large, dark lava tube.
They light a torch and toss it into the opening. Then, they lower the body into a burial cave and follow it down using an old rope.
Dr. Pelham hears CHANTING in the burial cave. He looks around for landmarks and then quickly returns to his house.
The next night, Dr. Pelham returns to the burial cave with an unlit torch.
He lowers himself down into the cave using the rope and then lights his torch.
He looks around and sees in the cave a large double canoe with its sail unfurled.
On the floor are many bodies, many with his or her knees drawn up to the chest. A rope is wrapped around the deceased person’s legs and placed around the neck. The rope is pulled tight to position the body into a rounded shape. Many of the bodies are wrapped in kapa.
Against the cave walls are many dusty but beautiful Hawaiian feathered cloaks, capes, and helmets, as well as war implements, kapa mats, and standards, long poles decorated at one end with a cluster of feather plumes (kahili).
He also sees many images, some of wood, very much carved, others of red feathers, with wide distended mouths, large rows of shark’s teeth, and glaring pearl-shell eyes.
Dr. Pelham’s jaw drops open as he scans the artifacts.
As his torch begins to sputter, he climbs out of the cave.
Dr. Pelham is seeing patients again. The Missionary walks in and Dr. Pelham takes him aside.
DR. PELHAM
I have had an amazing experience. An Old Hawaiian I was seeing as a patient agreed to let me have his bones when he died in exchange for writing down his family’s story.
MISSIONARY
How did that work out?
DR. PELHAM
As you predicted, when he died his family didn’t honor our arrangement and carried his body to a burial cave near here. I found the cave and was amazed that, in addition to bodies, the cave contains the hundreds of Hawaiian artifacts.
MISSIONARY
To the Hawaiians, this is a sacred area. I have heard many stories about the kings and queens who ruled here.
DR. PELHAM
Do the names Pono, Lani, and Kea ring a bell?
MISSIONARY
Yes, indeed.
DR. PELHAM
So, it’s true. It’s all true!
Dr. Pelham is awaken by loud shouts and cries.
He walks outside in his night clothes. As he looks toward the plain, tall flames leap out of the hidden burial cave opening.
The feathered items and wooden images are on fire. Flames lick upward as the image of a tall, wooden Hawaiian god burns.
THE END